The Martingale betting system is one of the simplest and oldest types of betting systems. It is also one of the more commonly known betting systems. The Martingale betting system is a type of negative progression betting and it is based on the probability of losing an infinite number of times. This betting system is usually applied to even money types of bets.

Using the Martingale system, you start by betting 1 unit. Every time you win a bet, you start all over again with 1 unit. If you lose the bet, you double the betting amount. You continue to double each bet you lose until you finally win a bet. After finally winning a bet, you start back over with the original betting amount of 1 unit.

By using this system, you are guaranteed a profit of one betting unit when you finally win a bet. This system will always turn a small profit unless you lose an infinite number of times.

Martingale Betting System Samples

For an example of the Martingale betting system let's say you are playing blackjack and starting your betting at $1 a hand. You lose your first bet, so your next bet will be $2 (the previous bet doubled). You also lose the $2 second bet, so your third bet will be $4. The dealer is running good and you also manage to lose your $4 third bet, making the fourth bet $8. On the fourth bet you finally manage to beat the dealer and get paid $8.

You lost the first 3 bets of $1, $2, and $4, so the total amount you have lost is $7. Since you won the fourth bet of $8, you have made $1 in total net profit. You've successfully made a profit of one betting unit, which is $1 in this example. After winning this bet you start the pattern over again, beginning with betting one unit.

Should I Use the Martingale Betting System?

If you are a blackjack player, we do not recommend using the Martingale betting strategy for several different reasons. The system is very risky and practically useless in most casino games. For this system to work flawlessly you must have a large bankroll. It's not uncommon to lose 7-8 hands in a row at blackjack. After losing that many hands in a row, all of a sudden you are risking very large amounts of money to gain one betting unit.

Another drawback to using this system for blackjack is that most blackjack tables have betting limits, such as $5 - $100. After losing several hands in a row, the table limit will no longer allow you to bet enough to continue using the Martingale strategy. You will never make much money by using the Martingale system in most blackjack games.

More Blackjack Betting Systems:

Some Online Casinos:

See also:

Gambling online, including blackjack online for real money, is illegal in some jurisdictions, so be aware of the situation where you live before deciding to play.